Dr Frank Amoakohene, the Ashanti Regional Minister, has urged students to desist from violence, particularly attacks on teachers and the destruction of school property.
He said such acts of indiscipline could undermine teaching and learning, derail students’ academic progress and damage the reputation of educational institutions.
Dr Amoakohene made the call when he addressed students of Kumasi Academy (KUMACA) at the launch of the school’s 70th anniversary logo and commemorative cloth in Kumasi.
The anniversary, scheduled for 2027, is on the theme: “Shaping Character, Cultivating Minds and Nurturing Souls.”
The launch marked the commencement of a year-long programme of activities leading to the grand anniversary of the durbar.
Dr Amoakohene said the Kumasi Academy had built a strong reputation for discipline over the years and urged the students not to engage in acts that could undermine the legacy of the institution.
He encouraged them to uphold the standards of discipline instilled by the Baptist missionaries who established the school.
Referring to a recent incident at Obuasi Secondary Technical School, where the headmaster was reportedly attacked and school property vandalised, the Minister described such conduct as unacceptable.
He urged students across the region to respect teachers and other school authorities and resolve grievances through appropriate channels.
Dr Amoakohene explained that discipline imposed by teachers should not be interpreted as hatred, but as part of the structured process of preparing young people to become responsible and productive citizens.
He said attacks on teachers and the destruction of school property ultimately harmed students themselves by creating an unsafe and unstable environment for learning.
The Regional Minister urged students to take ownership of their education and protect the institutions that provided them with opportunities to develop their potential.
Mr. Samuel Gato, the Headmaster of the school, said the school had produced several distinguished individuals and prominent personalities since its establishment in 1957.
He described the 70th anniversary as a significant milestone that required the collective efforts of past and present students, alumni, staff and other stakeholders.
Mr. Gato said the anniversary activities would include a health walk, exhibition, games, speech and prize-giving ceremony, entertainment and thanksgiving services.
He said alumni associations, including branches in the United States and the United Kingdom, were mobilising resources to support critical infrastructure development on campus.
The projects include expanding recently completed dormitory blocks and upgrading dining hall facilities.
Mr. Gato appealed to students, alumni and other stakeholders to collaborate and make the necessary contributions towards the successful organisation of the anniversary celebration.
The event was attended by Nana Boakye Yam Ababio II, Nkwantakesehene; Mr Amo Kamel, the Municipal Chief Executive for Asokwa; Mr. Ben Abdullah Alhassan, the Municipal Chief Executive for Asokore-Mampong; heads of institutions, members of the clergy, staff and students.
GNA
